Identifying the relationship among mental status, functional independence and mobility level in Turkish...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Geriatric Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Functional independence, mental status, and mobility are crucial for the well-being of institutionalized elderly individuals.
• Understanding gender-specific differences in these areas is essential for targeted care strategies.
• Previous research indicates potential disparities, but comprehensive analysis in long-term care settings is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate gender disparities in functional independence, mental status, and mobility among residents of a long-term care facility.
• To explore the interrelationships between these three key outcome variables.
• To identify factors influencing the health status of institutionalized older adults.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 133 elderly residents (60 women, 73 men) aged 65 and above.
• Assessment of mental status using the Hodkinson Mental Test (HMT).
• Measurement of functional independence with the Functional Independence Measurement (FIM) and mobility level using the Rivermead Mobility Index (RMI).

Main Results:

• Older men scored significantly higher than women across all measured variables: functional independence, mental status, and mobility.
• Women exhibited lower mobility levels and greater dependence in daily living activities compared to men (p < 0.05).
• A significant negative correlation was observed between mental status and both functional independence and mobility for both genders. Functional independence and mobility showed a significant positive correlation.

Conclusions:

• Gender is a significant factor influencing functional independence, mental status, and mobility in institutionalized elderly populations.
• Mental impairment is strongly associated with reduced functional status and mobility in older adults residing in long-term care.
• The findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive interventions to improve the quality of life for elderly residents.